Taraxacum officinale, more commonly known as dandelion, belongs to the Asteraceae (daisy) family. Dandelion is incredibly resilient, capable of growing almost anywhere, and found growing all throughout the world. The whole plant (leaves, flowers, roots) is used medicinally primarily for conditions involving the urinary system. Known for its diuretic property (resulting from inhibition of sodium reabsorption), dandelion is also potassium-sparing, meaning that there's decreased risk of potassium depletion when using dandelion for its diuretic property. This plant is also used for hypertension, gout, arthritis, edema. Dandelion leaves are antioxidant-rich and extremely nutrient-dense, even more so than spinach & kale!
Consider adding dandelion leaves to your next salad.